A POSTMISTRESS and her elderly mother are recovering after being tied up and robbed by masked raiders.

Postmistress Lynn Fowler was in the living quarters behind Acton Bridge post office watching television with her 62-year-old mother on Saturday night when three men forced their way in through the back door of the building.

The raiders bound both women's hands and demanded keys to the building's security alarm and safe.

Then they attempted to enter the post office counter area but the alarm was activated and they fled after taking the women's purses.

'They just crashed in through the back door, which is the main entrance to the living accommodation,' said Mrs Fowler.

'They came in from the main road and smashed the door open.'

Neither of the women was injured during the raid on the Hilltop Road shop, but both were left badly shaken by their ordeal.

The raiders did not appear to be armed and it is not known whether they escaped on foot or by car. The post office was cordoned off after the raid as police officers carried out a search of the premises.

Police are appealing for anyone who may have seen any suspicious activities around Acton Bridge post office between 6pm and 7.30pm on Saturday to come forward.

They would also like to speak to anyone who might have seen people acting suspiciously in the area in the days leading up to the incident.

Det Sgt Dougie Lawton of Northwich CID said: 'It's certainly a nasty attack on the two women. They are very stressed and upset. It's not a pleasant experience for anyone, let alone a lady of 62.'

'We are anxious to talk to anyone who may have seen anything suspicious. The men may not have been wearing balaclavas outside.'

Descriptions have been issued of the three robbers, who were all white males.

The first is described as about 5ft 8in tall and slim. He wore a black balaclava, black padded jacket, black trousers and black footwear.

He spoke with an East European accent and, although clearly spoken, his English was grammatically incorrect.

The second offender was about 5ft 9in tall, stockier than the first man and also wore a black balaclava and black clothing.

All that is known about the third offender is that he also wore black clothing. n If you can help police with their enquiries, contact Det Sgt Dougie Lawton at Northwich CID on 48000. Information can also be left in confidence on the Crimestoppers hotline 0800 555 111.